Pet nuisance
If you don't feel you can talk to them or if you feel threatened by them, speak to us.
If this is causing a serious problem for your household and you haven't been able to resolve with your neighbour, we'll talk to you and the pet owner to try and find a solution.
If this doesn't work, we may consider:
- Arrange for an independent mediator to help you sort out the issue yourselves
- Ask them to agree to terms in an Acceptable Behaviour Agreement to be a responsible pet owner
- Involve the RSPCA or the police
- Get an injunction (court order) to remove the animal or stop the owner from doing certain things
XL Bully dogs, a type of American Bully breed, often fall under Breed-Specific Legislation (BSL) due to their appearance or perceived breed characteristics. Here's a general overview of common legislation and advice in the UK:
- It’s a criminal offence to own or possess an XL Bully dog in England and Wales unless you have a valid Certificate of Exemption.
- From 31 December 2023, owners must keep XL bully dogs on a lead and muzzled when in public. It's also an offence to breed, sell, advertise, exchange, gift, rehome, abandon, or allow XL Bully dogs to stray
- From 31 January 2024, it's illegal to own an XL Bully unless it's registered on the Index of Exempted dogs and is compliant with the requirements
- From Thursday 1 February 2024 owners without certificate of exemption face a criminal record and an unlimited fine if they're found to be in possession of an XL Bully type, and their dog could be seized.
- If your dog is older than one year old on 31 January 2024, it must be neutered by 30 June 2024
- If your dog is less than one year old on 31 January 2024, it must be neutered by 31 December 2024
Further information regarding government guidance/Certificate of Exemption can be found on the government website
We may visit you to complete a repair or complete a routine tenancy visit, so please make sure to keep XL Bullies muzzled and in a separate room. We may also ask to see a valid Certificate of Exemption.
You should report it to the police on 101 and to VIVID if you think that the dog doesn’t have a valid Certificate of Exemption.
Get more advice on dealing with nuisance caused by pets on the government website.
